Cartridge Filter: How to Clean Your Pool Cartridge Filter

A pool’s cartridge filter plays a vital role in keeping your water clean by trapping dirt, debris, and other contaminants. Over time, though, it can get clogged with particles, reducing its effectiveness. Cleaning your cartridge filter is an essential part of pool maintenance to ensure it continues working properly. Here’s a simple guide on how to clean your pool’s cartridge filter.

1. Turn Off the Pool Pump

Before you start, always make sure the pool pump is turned off. This is important for safety reasons and to avoid damaging the pump or filter system during cleaning.

2. Remove the Cartridge Filter

Next, locate the cartridge filter in your pool’s filtration system. It will usually be housed inside a tank or casing near the pool pump. Open the casing and carefully remove the cartridge. Make sure to handle it gently to avoid damaging the filter. Take note of the filter’s orientation so you can reinstall it correctly later.

3. Inspect the Cartridge Filter

Before cleaning, take a moment to inspect the cartridge for any visible damage, like cracks or tears. If the cartridge is damaged, it will need to be replaced. Even small tears can allow debris to pass through and affect your pool’s filtration.

4. Rinse the Cartridge with a Hose

Once you’ve removed the filter, rinse it thoroughly with a hose. Use a high-pressure nozzle or a jet stream to spray the filter’s pleats, making sure to dislodge dirt and debris. Start from the top and work your way down. Be sure to rinse between the pleats to remove any trapped particles. Rinsing can take a few minutes, but it’s important to be thorough to ensure all debris is removed.

5. Deep Clean the Cartridge (If Needed)

If a simple rinse doesn’t do the trick, you may need to give the cartridge a deeper clean. There are two common methods to do this:

• Soak in a Cleaning Solution: To remove oil, grime, and stubborn debris, soak the cartridge in a cleaning solution specifically designed for pool filters. These solutions are available at pool supply stores and are often concentrated to break down oils and organic buildup. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for mixing the solution and soaking the cartridge for the appropriate amount of time.
• Use a Filter Cleaner or Degreaser: For more intensive cleaning, especially if there’s a lot of oil or grease buildup, use a degreaser or filter cleaner. Spray the cleaner onto the cartridge and let it sit for a while before rinsing it off.

6. Let the Cartridge Dry

After cleaning, let the cartridge filter dry completely before reinstalling it. It’s important that the filter is dry so that it can be reinstalled without any excess moisture, which could affect its performance. Lay the cartridge flat on a clean surface or hang it in a well-ventilated area to dry.

7. Reinstall the Cartridge Filter

Once the cartridge is dry and clean, it’s time to reinstall it into the filter housing. Carefully place the cartridge back into its position, ensuring that it fits properly and is oriented in the same way it was originally. Once it’s in place, close the filter housing.

8. Restart the Pool Pump

Finally, turn the pool pump back on and check the pressure gauge. After cleaning, the pressure should be lower than before, indicating that the cartridge is functioning properly. If the pressure remains high, this could indicate that there’s still debris stuck in the filter or a clog somewhere in the system.

How Often Should You Clean Your Pool Cartridge Filter?

How often you clean your cartridge filter depends on several factors, such as how much debris your pool accumulates and how often you use the pool. However, a good rule of thumb is to clean the cartridge every 3–6 months. You may need to clean it more often if your pool sees heavy use, if it’s located in a particularly windy area, or if you notice a decrease in water flow or an increase in pressure on the filter.

Tips for Maintaining Your Pool Cartridge Filter

• Avoid over-cleaning: While cleaning your cartridge filter is essential, avoid cleaning it too often. Over-cleaning can damage the filter and reduce its lifespan.
• Replace the cartridge regularly: Depending on usage and manufacturer recommendations, most cartridge filters last about 1-2 years. Replacing it when it becomes worn out ensures your system continues to perform optimally.
• Use a pre-filter: If your pool tends to get a lot of debris, consider installing a pre-filter on the pump to help reduce the load on the cartridge filter.

Final Thoughts

Cleaning your pool’s cartridge filter is a simple, but vital part of pool maintenance. Regular cleaning helps maintain your filter’s efficiency, prolong its lifespan, and keep your pool water clear and inviting. By following these steps, you can keep your cartridge filter in great shape and ensure that your pool stays in top condition all season long.